Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal compiled the Musnad, a vast hadith collection, and became a symbol of steadfastness during the Inquisition (mihna) over the Quran's createdness. The Hanbali school stresses transmitted texts and the way of the Salaf in theology ('aqida) and fiqh.
He studied under Imam al-Shafi'i and transmitted his respect across generations; traditional sources report that he prayed for al-Shafi'i for decades.
The role of scholars
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Why qualified transmission of knowledge matters.